Its that wonderful time of year again, when the pumpkin comes down, and the tree goes up. Its the time of year when the castle becomes even more beautiful and magical. And here we are again, for our third Disneyland Christmas post on this blog. Time flies when you're having fun huh? Christmas has always been a big deal for the Disney Parks around the world, but let's look at what is happening this year, because Disneyland is getting even more decked out than usual.
I know I said it was Disneyland that was getting more decked out, but I really meant California Adventure. Sorry. Cars Land has been the recent attention hog in the park by getting its very own, and very new, Halloween decor and the usual Christmas decorations this year. The Halloween decor was incredible and matched the theming beautifully. And, as usual, the Christmas decor was spot on. The other DCA news is the sad fact that this is our last Christmas with Paradise Pier. After the holidays, the famed pier will be rethemed to be "Pixar Pier". I know, I know, it doesn't make sense to me either, but it's Christmas, so let's let it go at least for now.
Back across the bricks, Disneyland is bringing back the classy Christmas decor it is oh so famous for. The castle will receive its usual treatment of lights and snow. Interesting to note that it's the first version of the castle in a long time that we have seen without diamonds on it. The iconic tree is back in its spot at the head (or the end?) of Main Street U.S.A. The garlands and wreaths are in their usual spots as well. The World Famous Jingle Cruise will not be returning this year for reasons unknown. The star of the show, It's a Small World Holiday, has pulled out all the stops, and started printing their own FastPasses. (some on the original paper from 15 years ago!). The shows and parties are in full swing as we come to the beginning of December. So, in short, Christmas is in full swing at Disneyland.
Disneyland during Christmas is always a more magical time. I have been only once, and it was amazing. It's like being in your own home, but more expensive and only for a limited time. The Disneyland resort has always retained an amazing magic that can only be found there. During Christmas that magic is magic-nified, if you will. They have captured the homely and familiarity of Christmas and put that into a larger scale and given it to the park. And even though the depth of the decor and magic of Main Street is not captured through the entire park, the park has that Christmas feel to it. Everyone is jolly and generally happy, a little less greedy and a little more humble. Just as they were when they were small children running down the stairs to their presents on Christmas day. But the excitement is soon surrounded with the pure joy and magic Christmas and Disneyland brings. Disneyland doesn't do all the work, it's up to the cast members and even the guests to add to this joy and wonder. That's what's to great about it, the magic you feel can be personal and different from everyone else's and yet the same. The nostalgia of Disneyland and the familiarity and memories of Christmas is an unbeatable match. This is Disneyland at Christmas time, this is the true Disneyland.
So from me to all of you, a Merry Christmas, and may all your dreams come true.